ROD BUILDING TIPS
Replacing Loose or Damaged Reel Seats

By John Britt

From Volume 5 - Issue #1 issue of RodMaker magazine:

Many of the mass produced rods have reel seats that become loose mainly
due to poor construction techniques or lack of adhesive. Sometimes
both. It is best to inform a customer that any repair involving reel
seats does involve the possibility of damaging a blank.

Graphite reel seats that are loose can often be removed with heat. First
remove the rear grip. I use a heat gun set on moderate heat while turning
the rod. Apply heat to the seat for a few seconds at a time, try and twist
off towards the butt. Since many are loose to begin with, often the reel
seat will simply pull off the rod. Quite often is is found that the inside
of the seat is perfectly clean and can be reused if you desire to do so.

Remove/repair/clean the old bushings and install the seat. If using the
old seat clean with alcohol before reinstalling. Heat will sometimes
damage a seat, however, and they need to be carefully checked before use.

Graphite seats can also be cut off using a Dremel or fine tooth hacksaw.
After removing the rear grip check and see just how much clearance exists
between the reel seat and the blank. Most time the use of a Dremel tool
is advised. Cut the seat on two sides, insert a screwdriver blade into the
opening and twist. The two halves will pop aprt and the seat can be
removed. If at all possible when inserting the screwdriver, try to do so
over an arbor or bushing as this should prevent any damage to the blank.

Finally not so much a tip as a word of advice, when using any power
tool for repairs be sure and wear the proper safety equipment. Items
such as cut-off wheels have been known to shatter and they can cause
serious damage to your person. ~ John Britt

Publishers note:

If you have any tips or techniques, send them
along! Help out your fellow rodmakers!
~ Publisher, FAOL